Some of us have our go-to costumes that we wear (and, therefore, wear out) year after year. While these reliable old favorites are probably easy and cheap, it's never quite as much fun to head out to a party in a new something-something that makes you look and feel your absolute best.

And for many of us, it's impossible to look OR feel all that great if we don't feel like our authentic selves, even if that self is masquerading as a woodland creature of some sort.

Personally, I find one of the best sources for getting in touch with my own creative thinking in a way that rings true to who I believe I am at my core is to spend some time exploring the various characteristics of my zodiac sign.

I'm an Aries, and I will always be the first person to both admit and declare that loud and proud that I am ALL Aries through and through, for better and for worse. BUT, I don't particularly feel like dressing up as a ram anytime soon, know what I mean?

The excellent news is that even though each of the zodiac signs has it's own symbolic character, so to speak, that represents them, you can absolutely dress up in a way that represents the many unique characteristics and personality traits of a Taurus, Pisces, Capricorn, what-have-you, without having to default to a costume that is a literal representation such as a bull, fish, or sea-goat.

I mean, what the heck is a sea-goat anyway? Am I right?

Because getting started on any creative project can be daunting, no matter how fun and exciting, I'm here today to help get you started with some fresh and out-of-the-box ideas for original costumes you won't see on every other person you know, and that you can probably even make for yourself at little to no cost if you just do some searching through your closets.

Just because you're as stubborn as a bull, you don't have to dress up as one to represent your true Taurus nature. Cartoon-fan favorite Daria is as cheeky and bullish as they come, and her outfit is super easy to pull together and cute as can be to boot.

Cancer is known for being highly sensitive to those around them, as well as for being a force of nature to be reckoned with. X-Men's Storm is the only possible character who can possibly fit that bill.

Virgo is said to be "discerning, a natural critic, and a sharp analyzer of everything and everyone. Highly intuitive, she has the ability to sense what is off-key about a person or situation, and hone into this with intent to improve." So grab that crystal ball, because a psychic fortune teller costume is calling your name this year.

There's just something about Scorpio that can never quite be pinned down, yet she is "in tune with the fundamental forces of life and nature and is moved by the great tides and events of human experience." And this handy makeup tutorial will take the guesswork out of pulling this attention-grabbing look off!

Sagittarius is known as the most curious of the signs, so spending the night as a private eye right out of the movies will suit you perfectly. All you need is a tailored suit, a cool thrift shop hat and perhaps a looking glass or binoculars and you are set to head out on an adventure and find your man!

Capricorns are the most independent, natural leaders of the zodiac, and if you know what's good for you, you will NOT try to misbehave in their presence. If that doesn't say school teacher with the ruler of steel and a pencil skirt to die for, I don't know what does.

Yeah, Aquarius, you could grab a toga and throw a water pitcher on your shoulder, but come on. Been there, done that, right? Aquarius is a non-conformist who cannot be pinned down. The Picasso of the stars, you might say. So there you go. You're a Picasso! (And you're welcome.)

How many times have you dressed up as a mermaid now, Pisces? I think we've all lost count. BUT, a glorious flower child hippie in a flowing gown perfectly captures your romantic, spiritual and passionate style. Peace out!

OK, I know this will actually be one of the most popular costumes out there this year, but come on. There's a GOOD reason. Wonder Woman rocks. Plus, her mystical backstory makes her an ideal choice for anyone interested in the stars.